She joined former Cardiff North MP Mrs Morgan to launch the bid for a change in the law in the Commons in January.

"It's great that this is moving ahead," said Mrs Morgan. "This law gives regulatory powers to the assembly."

The Sunbed Association, which has 1,500 members among the 6,000 estimated in the industry in the UK, also welcomed the proposals, saying they do not allow unsupervised tanning salons to join their membership.

Over the last 25 years, rates of malignant melanoma in the UK have risen faster than any other common cancer.

Chief Medical Officer for Wales, Dr Tony Jewell, said: "This is an issue that I have raised in my annual report, which will be published tomorrow.

"We are concerned about the increased use of sun beds and these regulations will help to reduce the risks of skin damage and cancer."

The Sunbeds (Regulation) Act 2010, originated as a Private Members' Bill introduced by Mrs Morgan comes into force next April.

The assembly government's consultation runs until December.

It is intended that the regulations will come into force in October 2011.

Tracey Loftis, Cancer Research UK's public affairs manager, said: "Cancer Research UK warmly welcomes the Welsh Assembly Government's proposed regulations to protect children and young people from using sun beds.

"It is vital that government regulations in England as well as Wales ensure that all tanning salons are properly supervised so that children cannot use sun beds."